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Those that are significantly under threat are stores which are within 15 miles of each other – and as Chelmer Village Asda is only 3.7 miles from Sainsbury’s it is one of the most likely to close in the region.

One of the stores which may struggle due to footfall following the possible closure is Chelmer Village Opticians.

Ray Sultana, the director of the shop, however remained adamant that it will not have a negative impact on his business.

He said: “To be honest it will affect the traffic that is coming into our business but because we have got loads of independent, successful shops along the parade, it should not really be a problem.

“We will all mix together to make sure people do come to the village square.

“Because of the location of it I can possibly see another supermarket taking it up or using it for space.”

There is also a fear among the local shops over if Asda does close whether there will be another supermarket ready to replace it.

Ray Sultana remained adamant that it will not have a negative impact on his business

However, Mr Sultana said he is ready for this possibility.

“To be honest if Asda does close then we are part of the Chelmer Village Trade Association and as traders we will put something together to make sure people do come here,” he added.

Lewis Owens, manager of the Coral bookmaker, was hopeful about the after-effects of the merger.

Just this month, bookies have been stung by the news that the maximum stake of fixed-odds betting terminals would be set at £2.